Edge Observation 911 Memorial Museum or Statue of Liberty Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, chances are you’re eager to see some of its most iconic attractions. This tour package offers a straightforward way to experience the Edge Observation Deck, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and even a Statue of Liberty cruise—all in one go. It’s designed to help you skip the long lines and maximize your time, which is always a win in a city that never sleeps.

What we really like about this combo is how it combines spectacular city views with a meaningful visit to the 9/11 Memorial. Plus, the option to add on a cruise past the Statue of Liberty makes it a flexible choice for different interests. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a guided tour; it’s primarily a ticket package, so if you’re hoping for expert commentary, you might need to arrange that separately.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, all-in-one package that covers some of NYC’s most popular sites without the hassle of booking multiple tickets. It’s not a guided tour, so if you prefer a more narrated experience, that’s worth considering. Overall, if you’re a visitor who appreciates efficiency and stunning vistas, this could be a solid pick.

Key Points

• Efficient Access: Skip the lines at the 9/11 Memorial Museum and Edge Observation Deck, saving valuable time.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple time options throughout the day make it easier to fit into your plans.
• Cost-Effective: For $89.99 per person, you get multiple attractions, which is a reasonable price for a full day of sightseeing.
• Broad Perspectives: From the city skyline to historic memorials and the Statue of Liberty, this package offers a diverse experience.
• No Guided Tour: Remember, this is a ticket package—not a guided tour—so you’ll be exploring mostly on your own.
• Mixed Reviews: While some travelers rave about the smooth process and views, others have had frustrating experiences with booking and communication.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The tour kicks off with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where you skip the long lines, which is a definite plus. The museum includes exhibits like “The Hunt for Bin Laden,” that showcase artifacts and personal stories that connect visitors to that pivotal moment in history. Most travelers report that the process of entering was smooth, and the exhibits are considered both educational and emotional.

One reviewer, Chloe_O, shared how “everything went smoothly from the moment we arrived,” and appreciated the informative displays explaining the building’s construction. For many, this part of the tour is a somber but important reminder of resilience and history. The allotted 1 hour 30 minutes allows enough time to absorb the exhibits without feeling rushed, but keep in mind that the museum can be emotionally heavy, so plan your visit accordingly.

2. The Edge Observation Deck

Next, the experience moves to the Edge Observation Deck, which is one of the highest outdoor sky decks in the Western Hemisphere. Sitting 100 stories above Manhattan, it boasts 360-degree views that span across the city and beyond. From here, you can get a perspective that’s both awe-inspiring and perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to see the city from above.

Travelers often comment positively on the breathtaking vistas; one reviewer, JuanCarlos_M, called it “part of history, good organization, and good education for new generations.” Spending around 1 hour 30 minutes here gives you enough time to take in the sights, snap photos, and enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace.

Some visitors have appreciated the way the deck is designed with informative displays explaining the building’s unique architecture and construction. Keep in mind, weather plays a role—on cloudy or rainy days, the views might be less impressive.

3. Optional Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Cruise

If you opt for the cruise add-on, you’ll board a ferry that passes by Liberty Island and Ellis Island. The 60-minute cruise offers a different perspective of the Statue of Liberty and is a great addition if you’re interested in seeing the iconic statue up close without the longer line or waiting time for the ferry separately.

Travelers who chose this option have found it to be a relaxing way to see more of the harbor and get some great photo opportunities. It’s a good complement to the urban sightseeing, especially if you’re interested in American history or just want a different view of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included in this package are entrance tickets to the Edge Observation Deck, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the Statue of Liberty cruise (if selected). The tickets help you avoid queues, which is particularly valuable during busy seasons.

However, keep in mind that this isn’t a guided tour—there’s no guide to narrate or explain during your visits. The package simply grants you access, so if you value in-depth commentary, you might want to consider additional guided options. Also, meals, transportation, and personal expenses are not covered.

Accessibility and convenience are important points; the ticket redemption point is located at 24 State St, close to public transportation options. Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for travelers with specific needs.

The Value Question

At $89.99 per person, this package offers a decent value considering the combined attractions and the skip-the-line advantage. For many, the convenience of planning everything in one purchase outweighs the cost, especially given the popularity of the sites.

That said, reviews highlight some frustrations, mainly around booking issues with third-party vendors like Viator. One reviewer, Daniel_L, expressed disappointment over lost reservations and money—so it’s wise to double-check your booking details and keep confirmation emails handy.

Also, while some travelers mention the tour’s organization as “good,” others note that the experience could be improved with more professional guides or clearer instructions on meeting points. If you prefer a guided, narrated experience, this might not fully satisfy that desire.

The Real Experience: What to Expect

When you arrive at the redemption point, expect a quick check-in process, especially if you’ve booked in advance. The skip-the-line tickets are a major perk, saving you potentially hours of waiting, particularly at popular sites like the 9/11 Museum and the Edge.

At the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, prepare for a reflective experience—there are powerful displays, artifacts, and personal stories. While some find the exhibits very moving, others mention that the emotional weight can be intense. The museum is designed to educate and memorialize, making it a meaningful part of your visit.

Reaching the Edge Observation Deck involves elevator rides to the 100th floor, where the views are spectacular. The outdoor deck is designed with safety in mind but still provides an open-air experience—ideal for clear days. Be aware that if the weather isn’t cooperating, the experience might be less impressive.

Adding the Statue of Liberty cruise is straightforward if you select it during booking. The ferry departs from nearby points, and the ride is smooth. It’s a scenic, relaxing way to take in the harbor sights, especially if you enjoy boat trips.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This tour package is perfect if you’re looking for a practical, all-in-one experience that hits some of NYC’s most famous sites without the hassle of individual bookings. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to save time, avoid lines, and get a broad overview of the city’s key landmarks.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning panoramic views and a reflective visit to the 9/11 Memorial, you’ll find this combination worthwhile. However, if you’re craving a more guided or educational experience with a personal touch, you might want to explore guided tours or separate tickets with added commentary.

It’s also worth noting that travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—comfort, planning, and flexibility will make your experience more enjoyable. Be sure to check the weather forecast, especially for the outdoor deck, and confirm your booking to avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the package is accessible to most travelers, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum can be emotionally intense for younger children. The sightseeing itself is suitable for families, but consider your kids’ sensitivity.

Can I choose the time for each attraction?
Yes, the package offers several time options throughout the day, giving you flexibility in planning your visit.

Does this include a guided explanation during the visits?
No, this is a ticket-only package. You’ll explore independently, so if guided commentary is important, consider adding a guided tour separately.

Where do I meet to redeem my tickets?
Redemption is at 24 State St, New York, NY 10004, which is near public transit, making it easy to access.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted at all sites included in this package.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the visit for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

All in all, this combo ticket offers a practical way to see some of NYC’s highlights with minimal fuss. While it’s not a guided tour, the skip-the-line access and the chance to soak in some of the city’s best views make it a worthwhile consideration, especially for first-time visitors eager to maximize their day. Just be sure to stay organized, confirm your booking, and prepare for a day packed with memorable sights.